brownbook magazine

new brownbook website

2008-05-20T20:26:00.001+04:00

www.brownbookmag.com

brownbook subscribers.

2008-05-18T16:44:00.003+04:00

Innerspace: Sandbag Prototype

2008-05-16T15:44:00.003+04:00

The global need for housing includes millions refugees and displaced persons – victims of natural disasters and wars. Iranian architect Nader Khalili believes that this need can be addressed only by using the potential of earth construction.

After extensive research into vernacular earth building methods in Iran, followed by detailed prototyping, he has developed the sandbag or ‘superadobe’ system. The basic construction technique involves filling sandbags with earth and laying them in courses in a circular plan. The circular courses are corbelled near the top to form a dome. Barbed wire is laid between courses to prevent the sandbags from shifting and to provide earthquake resistance. Hence the materials of war – sandbags and barbed wire – are used for peaceful ends, integrating traditional earth architecture with contemporary global safety requirements.

The system employs the timeless forms of arches, domes and vaults to create single and double-curvature shell structures that are both strong and aesthetically pleasing. While these load-bearing or compression forms refer to the ancient mudbrick architecture of the Middle East, the use of barbed wire as a tensile element alludes to the portable tensile structures of nomadic cultures. The result is an extremely safe structure. The addition of barbed wire to the compression structures creates earthquake resistance; the aerodynamic form resists hurricanes; the use of sandbags aids flood resistance; and the earth itself provides insulation and fireproofing.

Several design prototypes of domes and vaults were built and tested. The system is particularly suitable for providing temporary shelter because it is cheap and allows buildings to be quickly erected by hand by the occupants themselves with a minimum of training. The shelters focus on the economic empowerment of people by participation in the creation of their own homes and communities.

Report: Oxford's Middle East Centre, by Zaha Hadid

2008-05-12T10:33:00.003+04:00

The Middle East Centre of St. Antony’s College is the University of Oxford’s centre for interdisciplinary study of the Modern Middle East. The centre was founded in 1957 and it is focused on research on humanities and social sciences with a wide reference to the Arab World and its geographic adjacencies. The Centre research core is a specialized library and substantial paper and photographic archive covering material from 1800’s onwards. At present, the Middle East Centre’s Library and Administration facilities are housed in the former Rectory of the Church of SS. Philip and James at 68 Woodstock Road. The archive is housed in the basement of the neighbouring property at 66 Woodstock Road, sharing the building with other facilities and rooms of the college. The Middle East Centre also had 3 workrooms in the same property.

To tie in with the St. Antony’s College future plans the Middle East Centre is planning a new Library and Archive to meet the current use for research and academic activities. Zaha Hadid Architects has been commissioned to design a scheme in the garden plot that separates 68 and 66-64 Woodstock Road. The new building has to comply with the college’s vision for growth and add formal coherence to the existing quad, and tie in with the ambition ADP’s masterplan for St. Antony’s college.

www.zaha-hadid.com
www.sant.ox.ac.uk/mec/

Cafe. The Old Sana'a Market

2008-05-10T03:30:00.005+04:00

There is nothing more rich then experiencing the uniqueness of the Middle East and what it has to offer. As frequent fliers to Sana'a now is the perfect time to visit the city. With its unique souqs and untouched market, the experience is extremely rich.

Should you visit the old souq, pass by the Oud Qotor, opposite the honey quarter on the right passage. Known to brew the best tea with mint in the City.

Moroc - Rock n Roll

2008-05-10T03:26:00.003+04:00

The Gnawa music inspired a number of great musicians such as Jimmi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and others. Gnaoua music is a pentatonic music very similar to Blues music because both are rooted in the heart of Africa.

Jimmy Page and Robert Plant went even further to create No Quarter in 1994. No Quarter is a fusion between gnaoua music and rock, following the steps of Randy Weston who was the first musician to fuse his jazz music with gnaoua in the 60's.

The Gnawa Festival takes place in Essaouira - The Wind City - that hosted the hippy movement in the 70's. Essaouira is a very vibrant place to be from its rich culture and history to its beaches and weather that makes it a heaven for windsurfers.

"Gnawa are the descendents of slaves originating from Black Africa who established brotherhoods throughout Morocco. They are made up of master musicians (maâlem), metal castanet players, clairvoyants, mediums and their followers.
They are at the same time musicians, initiators and healers, blending African and Arabo-Berber customs. Despite being Muslims, the Gnawa base their ritual on djinn (spirits) straight from the the African cult of possession.
The most spectacular and important ceremony is the Lila, whose function is essentially therapeutic.
During the celebration the maâlem and his group call on the saints and supernaturel entities to take possession of their followers who fall into trance."

A culture cluster. The Khatt Foundation

2008-05-09T03:46:00.003+04:00

Founded by HUDA SMITSHUIJZEN ABIFARES, WILLEM VELTHOVEN, OMAR SAIF GHOBASH, PROF. DR JAN JUST WITKAM, to endorse and advance the calligraphy culture in the middle east, the Khatt Foundation is a non-profit cultural foundation dedicated to design research and cultural exchange between Europe and the Arab World.

www.khtt.net

illustrators: brownbook's art issue

2008-05-04T13:02:00.005+04:00

illustrated by delicatessen for brownbook issue nine.

www.delica.it

Burqa

2008-05-01T14:30:00.001+04:00

An enveloping garment usually made of leather and a special dye from India called ‘bogum’, that covers the leather and gives it its golden appearance. The Burqa is usually worn by elder women and is commonly used in the United Arab Emirates.

www.burqa.ae

blog: The Ganzeer Arts Collective - Erratic Fantastic

2008-04-23T16:56:00.006+04:00

The minds behind this rather long overdue advancement in the Arab design belong to Ganzeer, who describe themselves as a ‘new experimental design unit’. Based out of Cairo, the Ganzeer team and their mishmash of talents combine together to produce and present their new creative expression to the world. Speaking to Mohammed Fahmy - the creative/visual expert and founder of Ganzeer, and Mohammed El-Motasem - creator of all film/motion based projects, we were able to get an insight into the inner workings of these crazy cats from Cairo.

Fahmy is the instigator for Ganzeer, who decided to start something new after spending his time working for an internet company. Tired by being chained to his desk, he longed to branch out into his own space, an inventive, new space where art could be created and new ventures could be born.

Upon asking them what kind of message they initially wanted to communicate through Ganzeer, their list was no small matter, reflecting the many scopes and genres they had no qualms in developing. Fahmy (code name ‘Mofa’) states the aims of the collective as, “Healthier lifestyles, positive attitudes, activism, making the world better, and love”. El-Motasem (code name ‘Tasem) fared no better in finding a single message that Ganzeer emitted, “Rebelliousness, activism, pro-activity and awareness - especially political awarenes”.

With all these purposes and aims to achieve, it is no surprise that Ganzeer have such a vast and varied portfolio. A look at their website gives you an idea of the exhaustive amount of projects they have lent their creativity to. What’s more impressive is the flexibility and the wide range of projects they can adapt to, there appears to be no bounds to their talent - the section on their project list marked ‘Misc.’ alone will intimidate you. Their projects range from producing corporate branding to producing murals to be used as interiors in public stores and restaurants.

Speaking to Fahmy about the need for Ganzeer in the regional market, he described his reasonings into three different motivations. “I’ve always had a belief that you can create awesome art that truly communicates and brings out the positive in audiences via the usual commercial venues. That was one angle, the other was a desire in creating a true synergy between the arts; architecture, graphic design, photography, music etc - everything at its core is very much related, and when these different mediums interconnect and merge on different projects, the outcome can be astoundingly awesome. The third drive was a desire to bring out the local cultures to the scene. These cultures are part of our make, and play a strong part in shaping our characters and lifestyles and mindsets”.

ganzeer.com

Profile: Noun Ya

2008-04-19T14:35:00.003+04:00

Since 2004, Naissam JALAL & Yann PITTARD perform together their "mystical and erotical" music from Extreme-East to Extreme-West (Cairo, Paris, festival Jazz à Vannes...).
They’ve developed some original orchestration’s technic : they’re only TWO but you can hear more (sometimes playing oud like a percussion, singing and blowing at the same time, with live loops...).
There’s NO synthetiser and NO pre-recorded samples, just live performing.

They also work with Rayess_bek, orchestral hip-hop from Middle-east.
Individually, they perform with several bands from Mexico to Tokyo via Cairo, Beirut and Kolkata.

check out the video on their myspace.

www.myspace.com/nounyamusic

blogger: Dear God

2008-04-17T01:30:00.002+04:00

Dear God is a global project for people around the world to share their innermost hopes - and fears - through prayer.
It doesn’t matter what your version of God is…Jesus, Allah, Buddha or simply a spiritual universal energy… praying to a higher power soothes and heals. It’s scientifically proven that people who pray are healthier, happier and more resilient.

www.dear-god.net

via: thecoolhunter.net

Arab Film Festival - Berkley, LA

2008-04-14T01:34:00.005+04:00

The Arab Film Festival is now accepting submissions for it’s 12th Annual Arab Film Festival, to be held in the San Francisco Bay Area and in Los Angeles October 16th - 31st 2008. AFF is the oldest and largest annual showcase of works by independent Arab filmmakers that provide insightful and innovative perspectives on Arab culture, art, history and politics. Founded in 1996 to display Arab culture to American audiences through the medium of film, AFF has grown into an important bridge between the Arab world, Arab-American communities, and the broader American public. The Arab Film Festival provides a unique venue for Arab filmmakers to screen their work, meet other filmmakers and make connections for future project.

Deadline: 15th April.

www.aff.org

brownbook's new office

2008-04-10T18:04:00.003+04:00

Sajjadah 1426 - Prayer Rug by Soner Ozenc

2008-04-08T13:24:00.002+04:00

A prayer rug is a small and portable carpet that Muslims put on the floor when they perform their prayers. Its main function is to provide a clean and isolated platform for the prayer. With the specific patterns on its surface, it also aims to bring the atmosphere of a mosque to wherever they take it.

Muslims pray five times a day. The only product they need to perform their prayers is a prayer rug. And there is one thing they need to be careful about: the holy city of Mecca a” the direction towards which they should perform their prayers.

As one of the main aims of a~Sajjadah 1426′ was to emphasize the values of the patterns on the prayer rug, lighting those patterns up was considered as the main approach from the very first stages of the concept. There were several technology alternatives to achieve this effect: mini LEDs, fibre optics, EL wire embroidery and EL panel. After the experiments done, the most appropriate one turned out to be the Electro Luminescent Phosphore Printing technology. EL wire embroidery has also been explored during the research part and a~mini glow wire’ was ordered from the UK-based company Surelight Ltd.

‘Sajjadah 1426′ indicates the direction via the data coming from a compass module embedded inside it. The closer to the direction of Mecca it is turned, the brighter the patterns illuminate.

‘Sajjadah 1426′ enriches the praying experience with the illuminated patterns on its surface. The word ’sajjadah’ is a Persian/Turkish word meaning ‘prayer rug’ and the number ‘1426′ stands for ‘2005′ in Islamic calendar.

Designer: Soner Ozenc

Martin Luther King // 40 year anniversary

2008-04-04T05:22:00.003+04:00

Persepolis

2008-03-29T16:49:00.018+04:00

"’What we wanted to say is, if these people [Iranians, Muslims] scare you, look closer: They have parents, they have lovers, they have hope, they have stories,’ Marjane Satrapi told The Associated Press in an interview at a Cannes beach cafe. "Satrapi added: ‘The only real divide in this world is between the idiots and non-idiots.’" Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud’s Persepolis, one of the 22 films in the Cannes Film Festival’ Official Competition line-up, is based on Satrapi’s own experiences while growing up in Iran in the 1970s and early 1980s.
Some of the voices heard in the French-language version of the animated tale belong to Catherine Deneuve, Danielle Darrieux, and Chiara Mastroianni (as Satrapi), Deneuve’s daughter with Marcello Mastroianni.

Living under the Crescent Moon

2008-03-26T23:49:00.007+04:00

The exhibition hosted at the vitra design museum demonstrates the diversity of domestic lifestyles between Morocco, Syria and the Arabian peninsula - from the nomadic tents of the Tuareg or Bedouins to Moroccan casbahs; from the grand courtyard houses in cities such as Marrakech, Damascus or Cairo to buildings by twentieth-century architects like Hassan Fathy, Elie Mouyal or Abdelwahed El-Wakil.

23.02.2008 - 31.08.2008, Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein
16.11.2007 - 08.12.2007, Ex Cathédrale du Sacré Coeur, Casablanca
23.03.2007 - 27.05.2007, National Museum of Singapore, Singapore
23.11.2006 - 04.02.2007, TCDC Thailand Creative and Design Center, Bangkok
02.12.2005 - 22.01.2006, Arquerias de Nuevos Ministerios, Madrid
11.06.2005 - 18.09.2005, MART, Rovereto
23.09.2004 - 09.01.2005, Kunsthal, Rotterdam
17.06.2004 - 22.08.2004, IVAM, Valencia
21.07.2003 - 18.01.2004, Vitra Design Museum, Berlin
Living under the crescent moon

Travel: Faraya, Lebanon

2008-03-25T15:12:00.005+04:00

The snowy peaks of Mount Lebanon await you with their 80 Km of sun-drenched skiing trails. This is the home of The InterContinental Mzaar Resort & Spa, the only 5 stars hotel in the region, located at less than an hour drive from Beirut. Nestled between sky, mountains and sea, it is surrounded by a dazzling palette of leisure and archaeological sites. The Mzaar InterContinental is a palace of excitement when it comes to ski pleasures, but it also offers year-round indoor and outdoor activities. From its famous spa to its international cuisine and the late night entertainment at the in-house and nearby clubs, The InterContinental hotel cannot disappoint.

Hotel booking.
Hotel 11 - Faraya Kfardebian, Ouyoune Al Simane
+961-70-103222

Travel
Emirates
Dubai > Beirut
AED 1650

Hayv Kahraman

2008-03-24T18:44:00.008+04:00

Hayv Kahraman was born in Baghdad, Iraq 1981 and moved to Sweden at the age of 11. She began painting in oil at the age of 12 and soon after had several successful exhibitions in Sweden.

www.hayfdesign.com

Arabeastern.com

2008-03-24T18:42:00.002+04:00

brownbook partners with Tanjazz

2008-03-21T15:24:00.004+04:00

For more information and tickets please contact - team@brownbookmag.com

mobile phones in Emirates airlines

2008-03-20T16:26:00.008+04:00

Emirates has become the first airline in the world to launch an in-flight mobile telephone service.

An aircraft en-route to Casablanca today offered the service to passengers. A second aircraft will follow suit shortly.

download brownbook urban guides.

2008-03-20T00:38:00.003+04:00

you can now download brownbook urban guides online on the side banner. the online urban guides will soon cover the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia.

Cairo
Dubai
Manama

Earth hour - March 29th, 2008 - 8pm -

2008-03-18T21:08:00.007+04:00

Those that set aside one hour to reduce their energy consumption, by turning off unneeded lights and any appliances on standby, will be joining in a world wide movement. Following Earth Hour’s success in 2007, where more then 2 million people reduced their energy demand and Sydney’s landmark buildings where left unlit, Earth Hour has grown to cover 24 cities worldwide.

earthhour.org

Contemporary Istanbul 2008

2008-03-18T10:55:00.007+04:00

A rising star in the world of art fairs, Contemporary Istanbul ’08 has established itself as one of the most dynamic and promising art events in the region

contemporaryistanbul.com

Dubai > L.A

2008-03-14T12:53:00.002+04:00

Operating daily, connecting us literally to the other side of the globe, this service will be the first non-stop operation connecting Dubai to Los Angeles.

Services will start in september.

emirates.com

Waterfront masterplan - Dubai

2008-03-13T16:45:00.007+04:00

Located on the western shores of Dubai, the entire Waterfront development will transform 1.4 billion square feet of empty desert and sea into an international community for an estimated population of 1.5 million people that is twice the size of Hong Kong Island.

www.nakheel.com

Freak store . Harajuku

2008-03-11T11:38:00.003+04:00

Harajuku's freak store is filled with unique and rare products from the middle east sold to the world's most consumer driven market. The store is filled up with products such as watches pointing to Mecca, gitra scarfs and much more.

Freak strore,
Harajuku, off of omotesando

www.freaksstore.com

Greens

2008-03-08T02:46:00.001+04:00

Doha's best vegetarian cuisine, and hotel’s “signature restaurant. Greens offers unique and tasty “green” cuisine- the menu include dishes such as a warm amuse of asparagus and cepes with garlic rubbed virgin fried bean curd tart fine of celeriac with goat cheese fondue for starters, and white pepper crème brulee with fig and prune compote for desert.

Ramada Palace hotel

Doha, Qatar

+974 4281428

East meets West

2008-03-07T02:34:00.003+04:00

'East meets West' by Tonio de Roover is a sofa that invites people together to sit, talk or read.
In visual sense, 'East meets West' a sculptural object, an item that refers to a flying carpet that want to rise from the earth. It is reminiscent of the 'tales of a thousand and One Nights', thus heralding a connection with non-Western cultures. The simplicity of the shape and the materials used to emphasise this image.

http://www.tonioderoover.nl/blog/?p=12#more-12

La Fontaine - Manama

2008-03-05T00:09:00.004+04:00

The center of contemporary art la fontaine offers Bahrain its first private museum, where international contemporary artists exhibit their paintings, sculptures, photographic work, designs and architecture. Please check our events page to find out more on any forthcoming exhibitions.

www.lafontaineartcentre.com

update . issue eight.

2008-02-28T20:16:00.000+04:00

Ghraoui confectionery . Damascus

2008-02-27T05:44:00.004+04:00

In 1920, Mr. Ghraoui was amongst the main founders of the first fruit and vegetables canning company, “Compagnie Nationale des Conserves”, which was the very first public shareholding and the largest company in Syria at that time. It employed over 2000 employees and its product were sold all over the world through Mr. Ghraoui’s participation in International Exhibitions and Fairs.

Ghraoui in Damascus
Al Joumhouria Street, Al Muhafaza Bldg,
tel: +963 011 231 323/4/5

pre.launch event

2008-02-23T02:59:00.004+04:00

Event: brownbook urban guides launch

2008-02-19T00:51:00.003+04:00

Hope to see you there...

Dar Beida

2008-02-18T23:28:00.004+04:00

Dar Beida

Essaouira, Morocco

the pilot.

2008-02-16T22:31:00.002+04:00

Amishi Luxury Bags

2008-02-14T00:30:00.003+04:00

Appreciated by many celebrities, clutched by Bollywood stars and beloved by women world wide, each bag is embellished with semi precious stones crafted with the finest materials from all over the world.

www.amishi.eu

update: brownbook . urban guides

2008-02-10T02:45:00.002+04:00

sunday . 10/2 - 02:54 a.m

Architecture: Municipality of Baghdad

2008-02-05T11:30:00.000+04:00

In the 1970's, the Municipality of Baghdad embarked on an extensive upgrading and renewal scheme for the city, including several new housing developments. In December 1980 Planar, a Baghdad based planning and architectural firm, and Skaarup & Jespersen (Copenhagen) were commissioned to submit a conceptual layout ford 3km long site on the Tigris river, in central Baghdad.
The project was to be essentially residential, in the form of low-rise and high standing town houses designed to replace dilapidated areas. At this initial stage, the would-be users were not identified, although the brief required dwelling units of different sizes, which would attract high-income families. Most of the present occupants are senior presidential palace staff.
The general layout had to allow for long stretches of new development, interspersed with some existing structures of architectural and historical value. The scheme involves low rise, medium to high density urban housing based on terraced units.

Fashion: Araman Studio

2008-02-04T16:54:00.001+04:00

www.aramanstudio.com

RED CITY - MARRAKECH BAZAAR

2008-02-01T22:22:00.000+04:00

Marrakech's largest traditional market (souk) in Morocco with its busiest square in the entire continent of Africa, called Djemaa el Fna is starting in season. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, water sellers, dancers and musicians by day; and food stalls by night, becoming a huge open-air restaurant.

Dubai > Marrakech (via Casablanca)
AED 3010.00
Emirates airlines

Design: no to seduction

2008-01-29T02:26:00.000+04:00

Say "no" to seduction - interesting advert. created by Team Y&R - Dubai for Al-Bayan newspaper in attempts to resist seduction and pornographic activities in the UAE.

The ad features the logo of Playboy, shaped like the word 'no' in Arabic.

TEAM/Y&R
Illustrator: Wissam Hama

update: brownbook . urban guides

2008-01-24T21:50:00.002+04:00

launching soon.

"Old school" in Singapore

2008-01-24T16:27:00.000+04:00

Guerrilla fashion boutique Comme des Garcons, which has a habit of setting up shop in the most unusual venues, has done it again. For its only store in Southeast Asia, the Paris-based, Japanese label has picked the disused bookshop of Singapore’s former Methodist Girls School.
Called (what else?) “Old School,” merchandise here is laid out on antique school desks imported from Japan, giving the space the feel of an abandoned classroom-slash-laboratory. As dictated by its retail concept, Comme des Garcons does no advertising, and will stay open for exactly one year before springing up somewhere else.
source: trendhunter

Architecture: Ben Yedder, Tunisia (1987)

2008-01-23T23:43:00.000+04:00

This is a traditional tunisian house, the style is clearly connected with north African roots with regards to build,colour and dated style .The rectangular core of the house is arranged around a central patio, which the partial first floor also overlooks. The ground level rooms, symetrically placed on three sides of the patio, are vaulted. The fourth side of the internal courtyard opens onto a ryad (traditional courtyard house).The pool is lined with orange trees and the ryad is circumscribed by pergolas. The top floor is surmounted by a pyramidal roof covered with green-glazed ceramic roof-tiles. All the interior spaces are decorated with coloured ceramic tiles, marble and painted plaster.
Source: AKTC

DNA STORE - RIYADH

2008-01-20T04:41:00.000+04:00

The museum-like boutique is the first of its kind in the Middle East. DNA is a lifestyle fashion emporium that offers objects of desire as well as educates and visually stimulates its customers. It offers a retreat that ultimately exposes its members to new experiences.

dnariyadh.com

King Abdullah International Gardens

2008-01-17T21:41:00.000+04:00

Barton Willmore has been successfully appointed as designer for the Botanical Gardens.
The project has been commissioned by the city of Riyadh as a gift to the new King. The Gardens will be located at a site to the South West of Riyadh. The commission is set within the arid desert of Saudi Central Region. The gardens will encompass a botanical garden, a scientific garden, a water garden, a psychic garden, an aviary and many more contained natural environments.
The King Abdullah International Gardens has been designed to become a world leading focus of mankind’s understanding of the process, consequence and study of climate change.

New Land Rover Defender

2008-01-16T19:58:00.000+04:00

The BMW X6 may be paving the way for the Coupe SUV niche market, but Land Rover will be fielding a competent competitor if it ever makes it into production. Tata Motors is about to buy the Brisish marque from Ford, therefor plans may change.
“The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles,” says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director.

worldcarfans.com

Something in the Air

2008-01-15T02:01:00.000+04:00

Since we are huge fans of apple we could not resist posting this. Apple posted the 'Something in the Air' teaser campaign on their website, and promises that you will be able to watch the keynote on Apple.com on Tuesday afternoon (pre-recorded, not live). The banners were originally revealed on Friday at Macworld Expo's Moscone center.

The Keynote address kicks off at 9am Pacific on Tuesday, January 15th.

apple.com/keynote

Store: Heci Bekir - Istanbul

2008-01-14T15:08:00.001+04:00

From the time of its founding during the Ottoman Empire, the name Haci Bekir has become a legend in Ottoman and Turkish confectionery and a leading symbol of this art. The Haci Bekir story began in 1777 when Bekir Effendi moved from Araç in Kastamonu, a province bordering the Black Sea coast of modern Turkey, to Istanbul.

Today, Haci Bekir's tradition is being carried on by the family as Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir Confectioners, and the company can proudly say that this first shop represents the only business in Istanbul.

İstiklal Cad. No.83
6 34433 Beyoğlu
Istanbul
212 245 13 75

hacibekir.com.tr

Review: Gerald Genta - Arabic exclusive.

2008-01-11T17:54:00.000+04:00

The most impressive model is of course the Octo Mosaic. It's impressive due to its size (a diameter of 44,5mm), its thickness (12,45mm), the gap between the lugs (31mm), its weight and of course due to its design.

IQP+GMT with arabic figures and text. The watch is 100m waterproof. The dial decoration is an homage to the arabic art. Its style works perfectly with the case shape. The watch is sold with a beautiful jewellcase, a compass and a booklet. The booklet is used to set the compass in order to find the Mecca's direction.

The case is made in Stainless Steel or White Gold for Muslim customers.

www.geraldgenta.com

Kanje

2008-01-08T22:45:00.000+04:00

Building a new industry Kenje based in Kazakhstan capital, has made the fashion world start to buzz. High end retailers were surprised that the collection of dresses has left Haute Couture junkies asking for more. The interest in the Kenje was so great that renowned critics were left in speechless.
During the launch of the collection in Kazakhstan with international fashion connoisseurs visiting has left a great impact on the city let alone the region.
With models walking to a set of songs with a mix of African drums and other instruments the podium was filled with unrealistic tanned Models. Later the show was quoted as fashion with no borders and nationalities.
Akkenje Devyatko, exhibiting under the name Kenje has led her country with a fashion collection from the Amazons labeled "courageous, secure her".
I think we all will be hearing more of Akkenje in the years to come.

Living in a Dream - Beit Al Mamlouka

2008-01-06T20:22:00.000+04:00

Within the Bab Touma district in Damascus lies a historical marvel that vows to provide guests with a unique experience in hotel accommodation.Renovated from a 17th century family house, the 8 bedroom boutique hotel Beit Al Mamlouka has been garnering international interest for its stylized interiors and startlingly accurate reincarnation of old Syrian time periods.
Each of the eight rooms have been appointed different names such as Suleyman I and Ibn Sina- all are names of Pioneering figureheads that have existed within Syrian history. Each room is delicately furnished according to different time periods or rather, the time period that each character the room is named after existed. As a result, no two rooms are the same and each room possesses a highly distinct and individual feel.This hotel is breathtaking escape in a historical city. We can assure you that you will have no trouble in wanting go back over and over again to revisit Beit Al Mamlouka.

Bombay Electric

2008-01-04T22:18:00.000+04:00

Old Colaba has certainly been given yet another style life. Bombay Electric id the latest to open its doors just opposite the Taj, in a quaint, old-fashioned building.
Store owners Priya Kishore and Deepak Rajegowda have done well with their stock selection; cheery crushed silk tops by Anshu Arora Sen, fine block-printed kaftans by Sonam Dubal, structured dresses by Arjun Saluja and baby soft cotton pullovers by Savio Jon. Suhani Pittie’s dainty bracelets complement well, but it’s Anita Vaswani’s stoned collection of silver beaded and studded necklaces that will get Mumbai’s Blahnik divas dashing in for their coveted share.

1 Reay House
Best Marg
Colaba, Mumbai 400 001
Tel +9122 2287 6276
info@bombayelectric.in

Travel: Cafe Arabe Morocco

2008-01-03T18:46:00.000+04:00

Tucked away in an alleyway within the historic Medina district, Cafe Arabe is a scenic dining venue where guests can sample the sights of the old city whilst indulging in an array of delectable local and Italian dishes.
Opened in 2004, Cafe Arabe is the first official cafe to have opened in the old city area. The cafe has been built in a refurbished Moroccan house, and offers its visitors different dining areas to unwind, each with its own character and layout.
The main restaurant area is elegantly furnished and opens out to a romantic courtyard decorated with leafy orange trees. Colorful paintings by local artists enhance the walls inside the restaurant, and carefully-selected traditional objects give the dining room extra depth and detail.
Enjoy a range of freshly-made drinks and cocktails at the charming bar, or take a seat on the cosy and shaded outdoor terrace where you can savor the views provided by the city skyline and the Atlas Mountains.
The Italian owners of Cafe Arabe have ensured that all dishes prepared at the restaurant retain a balance of local and Italian tastes. Start your meal with a refreshing aperitif, and choose your mains from a long menu consisting of delicious pasta, quiches and homemade salads and pastries.
For dessert, try their range of home-baked cakes and select a drink from the long list of mint teas, coffees and cocktails.

184 rue El Mouassine Medina Marrakesh 40000
Tel: +212 2442 9728

Lifestyle: Taking shelter in the B018

2008-01-03T18:40:00.000+04:00

B018 is the brainchild of Beruit born architect Bernard Khoury. Although he spent the majority of his life in the US, he was eventually drawn back to Lebanon after earning his final degree, a Masters in Architecture from Harvard University. He wanted a chance to head back to his original home, to be able to help re-create the damage that had been caused by prolonged periods of war. He was given a chance to work on B018 through his cousin who wanted to scout for land for that was cheap and predominately empty. These requirements drove him to look to the quarantine area where a former refugee camp once stood.The site location was regarded by many people as an unusual choice to place a club, as it was in a desolate area. However, behind this location was a devastating history, as the camps built there were attacked and razed down in 1976.
Building a nightclub on a place with such a traumatic past was considered highly off-putting for a lot of people, and drew a lot of criticism against Khoury’s ideas.

b 018 - Sodeco, Beirut

Walden: Nils Holger Moormann

2007-12-30T22:01:00.000+04:00

Influenced by a story from the American writer and philosopher Henry David Thoreau, comes a concept that revolves around the concept of a simple outdoor life.
Garden owners can use the Walden to store various tools such as shovels, rakes and wheelbarrows in this ‘wooden box’ of unusual proportions.
Alternatively, they can also decide whether to take a seat at the table in the seating cabin, or climb a ladder to the upper level where you can enjoy the view or stretch out under the sliding sunroof. You might be inspired to light a campfire in the swinging fire cauldron, with the necessary space for firewood right beside it.
As a whole ‘Walden’ offers lots of room for things we associate with ‘garden’ and ‘outdoors’ and honors them with a layout, in which they can be seen.

Lamia Asudari

2007-12-29T22:01:00.000+04:00

Origin|Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Active|Lonon, UK

Lamia Asudari has dreamed of becoming a fashion designer for very long time. After arriving in the UK from Saudi Arabia at the age of nine, her love for making and creating turned into a full time obsession. After studying a Theatre and Costume Design course at the American University of Cairo, Asudari was finally able to indulge in her design passion by enrolling in a Fashion Print degree at the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. For Asudari, London proved to be the important creative outlet needed to start her design quest, something she feels would not have been achievable had she stayed within the Middle East.
After Completing an 18 Month stint at the institutional fashion label Alexander McQueen, Asudari learnt to apply important clothing manufacturing techniques to her designs. These proved to be important defining techniques that would allow her designs to stand out from the rest.
Asudari's collection is modern style at its very best. Nonetheless, she has not left her cultural roots out of the design mix, instead combining the two contrasting worlds to create styles that are brimming with fluidity and modernity.

Spring/Summer 2008

Axiom Abbayas 2007

Layali Oriental Restaurant

2007-12-23T19:35:00.000+04:00

Located under a traditional Moroccan tent, the Layali offers a selection of Moroccan and oriental specialties with live entertainment.
Underneath the tent, guests can enjoy comfortable, low-level seating in a specially furnished restaurant with traditional interior.

Route De Malabata Baie De Tanger, 90000 Tangier, Morroco
Tel: 9716-553-8325
Open: Daily-7:30PM – 11:30PM

Silverjet

2007-12-21T23:50:00.000+04:00

Silverjet are a British airline with a highly talented management team that has been created from industry executives with decades of experience running some of the world's best airlines. Silverjet aims to become the global market leader in exclusively business class 'luxury' long-haul air travel.
Learning from the success of low-cost carriers, the Silverjet airlines fleet consists of a small number of 767's in a one class configuration. Without having to subsidize 'economy' passengers, they can pass on substantial savings to customers. Silverjet aim to provide the highest service to their passengers, with highly experienced pilots, cabin and ground crew, delivering the highest safety and engineering standards under a license from the British Civil Aviation Authority.
From the 19 November 2007, Silverjet commenced their Dubai to London flights in an all new class of travel Silver Class. From their exclusive Silver Lounges to unrivalled in-flight service, Silverjet ensures that you will enjoy a private jet experience from exceptional value.
Their special introductory offer starts at just 7,499 AED return. Silverjet will operate from the Executive Terminal at Dubai International Airport away from the bustle of the main terminals. Daily Flights will depart Dubai at 10:30 and arrive at London Luton at 14:45. Flights depart London Luton at 21:00 and arrive in Dubai the following morning at 8:30 (all times are local).

Silverjet ad

Residence: A First Rate Design - Sharjah, UAE

2007-12-19T18:55:00.000+04:00

Since 2000, the dxb.lab has introduced a series of new buildings that are changing the landscape of Dubai. Founded by the architecture visionary Khalid Alnajjar, dxb.lab are currently worked in many well-known business and urban districts in Dubai such as Business Bay, Dubai Waterfront, and the already completed urban fashion design store Five Green.
Alnajjar has also contributed his design skills into a number of private residences around Dubai and the rest of the U.A.E. These houses are easily noticeable around the city, individual structures that all have elements of balance and boldness, as well as enabling all the houses inhabitants to rethink the way they interact with the space and environment of their dwelling.
One of the many acclaimed houses that Alnajjar has worked on is house 002. So far there have been three private residential houses completed by dxb.lab, all given a somewhat mysterious title through their single numbered names.
house 002 is based in Sharjah and was completed in 2006. It was designed to transpose the art of housing architecture into two factors – a public and a private zone. It was initially modeled on the desert houses of old, where areas of the houses were segregated into a private residential area, and a public area where everyone was able to congregate – usually the courtyard. house 002 has taken this concept and updated it to apply to their modernized and visually striking residential structure.

house 002 itself is in a minimal color palette that consists primarily of shades of grey, browns and white. It’s almost as if the house was purposely left to appear blank and uncolored which allows only the residents to give it the personalized feel. It is the space they need to inhabit their house and fill their lives.
The overall structure of the house is clearly minimalist, but it does not fade into the background. Its stark structure stands out into the Sharjah sky, making its mark onto the local landscape. In essence, it is not a house, but a shelter where new rules about volume and space can be made upon entering.
Several levels of different platforms open up the public area for house 002. Each platform consists of a number of different elements – gravel, concrete and water. These subtle change in materials bring you to notice that you are entering a series of different environments both mentally and physically. The differing textures of each platform materials are tangible changes that the person entering the house will take note of and place into context.
The house itself takes on different levels on the outside, with strong, irregular, boxy type structures protruding out from the single ground. Once you enter the house, the presence of a glass wall changes the set up of the house, or as Khalid al Najjar puts it “it turns the inhabitants of the space into performers and the house into a stage”. In this vicinity, the people in the houses morph from just living as the constrained title of ‘inhabitants’ into people that are watched, are regarded, and are judged by the viewers outside. house 002 re-aligns all the norms about your standard house, making you live as a person and not just an average house dweller.
Taking into context the original idea that courtyards in the houses of old were the harmonizing area of the living environment, the place where everyone and everything comes together – the courtyard in house 002 is where your mind divides the area for your own use.
The courtyard is divided up into different areas, providing a multitude of uses for the house’s inhabitants. Instead of understanding the courtyard as place where things are done, the courtyard only comes into existence by people entering the space and deciding what they want to do with it. It is this slight change in use that really brings a whole new dimensional level to this publicly shared and personal vicinity.
Alnajjar’s vision has manifested in the form of a successful and personally interactive living space. Instead of getting some kind of standardized house, he recognizes the need for division and expansion, for public and private, and for space and being. He combines all of these into a single space where one is simply able to live and be in control of the area of their very existence.

Photographer Extraordinaire-Mine Kasapoglu

2007-12-17T18:10:00.000+04:00

Our rare find is a Turkish photographer who doubles as a snowboarding champion and is famous on all levels. The rare find in question is Mine Kasapolgu.When she is not taking captivating photos for a range of publications, events and advertisements, she can be found on a snow-covered mountain range, perfecting her skills that earned her the Turkish Snowboard Champion title this year.

Mine's photography manages to portray her subjects on an entirely different level. Even a humble image such as a golfing rage will be transformed into an otherworldly landscape through her camera lens. Nevertheless, she is still searching for the perfect balance between capturing the image through her eyes and her camera lens.

Mine's sees her work as a never-ending endeavor. As long as the world continues to present her with people, places and anything else it wants to throw in her way, Mine will be there on and behind the scenes doing what she loves best. "I am trying to find out what it is inside me that needs to take photographs and why? In the end trying to answer that question makes things more complicated so I find it easier to let myself go free behind the camera and just try to feel."

She really must love those feelings.

Travel: Ski tracks into Tehran

2007-12-14T19:26:00.000+04:00

You could be in Banff, Aspen, St Mortiz or any other ski resort in the world where the skiing is prime and the lifestyle is pristine. Ski resorts are renowned places to frolic with the rich and famous, recline in the five star chalets and to experience first-class service and entertainment. It’s a chance to be pampered and to live extravagantly in a winter wonderland above sea level.

Now imagine that crisp snow-covered wonderland, but imagine it interspersed with gender-segregated queues. As you dash down the slopes, imagine your scenery of nature and woodland interrupted with signs stating rules and etiquettes you must adhere to.

These images belong to the newest alpine scene that is drawing huge success in Tehran. Although the city still resides under strict authoritarian rule, the ski resorts – all located a short commute away from the city – are drawing huge interest from locals and foreigners. The resorts, even with all their rules and regulations, are a place for the new, predominately younger generation of Iranians to unwind and relax, and to get away from the stifling city environment of Tehran.
Tehran’s main resorts – Dizin, Tochal and Shemshak, have been drawing huge crowds since the first resort at Dizin opened in 1979. The resorts have all gained global recognition for the having some of the best weather and snow conditioning for alpine pursuits.

Iran’s budding ski culture can be linked to the presence of the Alborz mountain range in Northern Iran. There is said to be something quite remarkable about the Alborz Mountains, a source of inspiration and worship for the Zoroastrians, the once dominant religion for most of Iran. The mountains are a source of peace and solitude, and most skiers find their very sheer presence as they trail down the mountain to be both humbling and engulfing.

The mountains also offers some of the last remaining unpolluted breathing spaces in Tehran, poking out like an oxygenated gemstone from the smog-encrusted skyline of the construction and traffic laden city.

The idea of skiing was initially introduced by foreigners – Germans who were working on the Iranian railroad around the 1930s decided to take advantage of the fine slopes. Returning Iranians who had been to western countries were thrilled to find such an activity available in their home country, and it eventually grew in popularity all over Tehran. In 1947, the Iranian Ski Foundation was brought into existence.

Although Tehran resort services may have a while to go before they start reflecting their Western counterparts, it is the basic ‘minimum fuss and maximum experience’ that is offered and manages to attract people year after year.
The resort of Dizin is one of the most well-known ski locations in Iran. Located just 60 km and over an hour away from Tehran, it’s also noted as being one of the more relaxed resorts in Tehran for Iranian youth to congregate together and socialise without any qualms.

Until recently, tales of the much feared Basiji, or religious police, struck deep fear into the skiers of the slopes. It was common to see these Basiji enforcing strict rules on the slopes, enforcing fines. Up until recently, the slope had been segregated into two sections – male and female.
This may not paint the best picture of prime skiing environment; however, you’ll be glad to hear that nowadays Dizin is regarded as one of the more ‘vibrant’ resorts out of the three, even with the religious police still dotted around the slopes. They still go on patrol of the resorts, however in recent times they have adopted a far less severe approach and the youth are beginning to rekindle their social freedom. If anything, the new generation of Iranian youth have gotten cheekier, and have even preyed upon the fact that not all members of the religious police are capable skiers. Young Iranians defying the guidelines of the authorities by not covering their hair, skiing with a member of the other gender, or even just wearing a t-shirt on the slopes are coming out of the woodwork and into the freedom of the 21st century.

Regardless of the religious police, the banners scattered around the resorts in Farsi pointing out the religious rules, the lack of flashy westernised amenities, Dizin is really just like any other ski-resort.

Music is now played loudly from speakers, people sit in cafés sipping tea taking in the atmosphere, laughter and chatter is heard from the ski lift gondolas – everything is a welcome veil that appears thrown over the backdrop of the stifling and grey Tehran city.
Dizin is a noisy, crowded hive of activity, especially on the weekends when the families from the city come out and play.

One of the main attractions about skiing is Tehran is the fact that it will not cause huge, immense holes in your budget. A full day ski pass at Dizin is around $4 – $5, and ski equipment and wear rental is around $10 – $30, although it is recommended that you bring your own equipment ad wardrobe, as a lot of rental equipment is believed to be actual relics from the 70s and 80s. Snowboarding equipment is also available – snowboarders are welcome on the slopes and their numbers are growing around Tehran as more locals begin to catch on.

Dizin, Shemshak and Tochal are all easily accessible via Tehran. The nearest airport to the resorts is the Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. Check your local travel agents for details of flights to Tehran. The resorts are accessible from the airport or Tehran city via coach.

Event:Dubai Sparkles

2007-12-13T22:51:00.000+04:00

11 to 15 December 2007

Dubai International Jewellery Week is a week-long extravaganza of three distinct shows - Areeq Dubai, Jewellery Collections Dubai and Jewellery Trade Dubai, each tailored to deliver focused forums for traders, consumers and exhibitors from across the globe with more than 400 exhibitors from over 20 countries.

The Scarlet a Boutique Hotel

2007-12-12T01:00:00.000+04:00

The Scarlet Hotel

33 Erskine Road, Singapore

A Girly Girls Car

2007-12-10T12:03:00.000+04:00

Pudracar, an Istanbul-based luxury taxi service for women offers pink BMW 3 series cars fitted with custom interiors in camel- coloured, dark grey and soft pink, accentuated with sparkly crystals. Pudracar also added specially selected snacks, cosmetics and make-up tools.

Event: Helvetica - in Traffic

2007-12-09T15:25:00.000+04:00

Helvetica feature-length independent film about typography, graphic design and global visual culture. It looks at the proliferation of one typeface (which is celebrating its 50th birthday this year)
Premiering tonight in Traffic Dubai

Amer Kokh

2007-12-09T00:16:00.000+04:00

The talented 28 years old Jordanian artist and animator Amer Kokh, is one of the master minds in the region behind hit cartoon series Meawo and Shabiyet Al Cartoon.His project Jahannam started 6 years ago planning to turn it into a short movie, Kokh studied each character individually and story lines carefully, and have built a great team to bring his dreams to life.

Plumberry Boutique

2007-12-07T16:59:00.000+04:00

A trendy new boutique has opened its doors in the neighbourhood, Plumberry boutique is exactly what Bahrain fashionistas needed, it carries classy and chic casual/dressy wears, clutches , shoes, and not to forget the adorable baby clothes .

Plumberry Boutique
Al A'ali Shopping Complex
Tel: 17-581125

via:inmychoos

PENELOPE*PHONE by Hulger

2007-12-07T08:48:00.000+04:00

The idea for Hulger arrived in 2000. The mobile phone as 'timeless classic'. In 2002 the Hulger team created a prototype that was featured in Design Week.
Maybe it is not so practical. But definitely something different. Hugler looks backwards because we have alot to learn from the past,there's lots of untapped inspiration there. Fashion looks backwards as much as forwards, it knows that there is so much meaning to draw from.
With the Bluetooth Base hugler brings the classic 30's inspired PENELOPE*PHONE up-to-date allowing wire-free calling with mobile/cell phones, MAC + PC alike.

Sharkah Chakra Denim

2007-12-07T07:12:00.000+04:00

Sharkah Chakra, a new luxury denim brand made using Fairtrade organic cotton and a completely natural dyeing process, launches its first collection in the UK in September 2007. The jeans have been made in villages across southern India by craftsmen that weave the cloth by hand on authentic wooden selvedge looms and use an ancient technique of natural indigo dyeing. by supporting these methods, Sharkah Chakra will revive a virtually extinct craft whilst simultaneously pioneering innovative, luxury denim.

Orcha straight cigarette pants for Girls

Godavair: Relaxed fit for Boys

Masdar - Abu Dhabi

2007-12-05T08:04:00.000+04:00

in Abu Dhabi will be the world's first development to achieve carbon natural and zero waste city in the world. Masterplanned by Foster + Partners the exciting programme includes the Headquarters for Abu Dhabi’s Future Energy Company, a new university , special economic zones and an Innovation Center.

Boutique Cave Hotel

2007-12-05T02:06:00.000+04:00

The Serinn a stylish hotel located in the enchanting landscapes of Ürgüp's ,Cappadocia, with just five guest rooms, each individually designed by renowned Turkish architect Rıfat Ergör to reflect the beauty of the natural caves while maintaining a very modern sensibility.

Villa Moda Bahrain by Marcel Wanders

2007-12-02T23:20:00.002+04:00

Travel: Townhouse gallery - Cairo

2007-12-02T14:45:00.001+04:00

The Townhouse Gallery of contemporary art has been exhibiting work from the region’s contemporary artists since 1998. The gallery space has provided a fitting platform for visual arts, film, music and theatre.
Recent expansion has allowed the gallery to offer more space and depths to their installations and exhibits.
The construction of an annex in 2001 and a factory space in 2002 has helped turn the gallery into one of the largest private exhibition spaces in the Middle East. A library was later built in 2004 and gave the public access to a wide collection of up-to-date art resources and data such as text, journals and press.
Artists exhibited at the gallery include Amal Kenawy, Barry Iverson, Youssef Nabil and Lara Baladi. The gallery launched an artist residency program in 2000 to provide artists with a local studio space where they could work within an urban-based environment.

The gallery also has a series of outreach programs that aim to offer educational programs as part of the community development.

townhouse gallery
10 Nabrawy street, off Champollion street,
Cairo, Tel. (+202) 576-8086

Review: Bell Agusta tilt rotor

2007-12-01T18:39:00.000+04:00

The unique characteristics of this Tiltrotor can literally revolutionize this process by giving tightly scheduled executives a single efficient solution to the problem of getting from here to there in the shortest possible time with a noise level which is remarkably low.

One of the upcoming middle east trends in regional travel.

bellagusta.com

update: brownbook's issue seven

2007-11-30T18:04:00.001+04:00

issue seven, work in progress.

available on December 25th.

Travel: Vice magazine's travel on Kabul

2007-11-29T22:09:00.000+04:00

Vice Magazine's newly launched tv channel VBS.TV produced a series of regional travel guide in the middle east.

Short film: Egypt's creative anti drug campaign

2007-11-29T17:52:00.000+04:00

This is a short film directed with the help of the most talented young film makers in egypt showing how talented the upcoming generations is.

Title: mokhadarat
director: amr salama

Travel: Café de Paris, Tunisia

2007-11-28T17:29:00.001+04:00

Located on the main street in Tunis - Avenue Habib Bourguiba - this cafe is a famous installment on the Tunis sidewalks. The Cafe is famous amongst locals and travelers, luring in people from all walks of life. Located in the VIlle Nouvelle half of Tunis city, the cafe is filled with Tunis’s young and intelligent population, everything from life to politics can be heard discussed around the walls of the cafe.
Café de Paris is ideal for relaxing and watching one of the more vibrant and bustlings streets in Tunis.

Café de Paris - Habib Bourguiba Avenue, Tunisia

Pecha Kucha Night

2007-11-28T12:10:00.000+04:00

Event: 5th December 2007
Venue: The Third Line

Pcha Kucha (Japanese for the sound of conversation) is an event that takes place over 80 cities across the world for young designers to meet, network, and show their work in public. Each presenter is allowed 20 images, each shown for 20 seconds each - giving 6 minutes 40 seconds of fame before the next presenter is up. This keeps presentations concise, the interest level up, and gives more people the chance to show.

Pecha Kucha in Dubai is held at The Third Line and is organized by the Architectural Association of the UAE (aaUAE), S*uce (a fashion and lifestyle boutique), Traffic (a design gallery), 9714 (an events and design company), and The Third Line (a gallery of contemporary Middle Eastern artist).

Arcitecture: Twirling Tower - Dubai

2007-11-27T19:27:00.000+04:00

This is unbelievable; no one could watch this clip without being utterly blown away. Those on top of architectural trends probably won’t be surprised to hear that these self-powered “dancing” green buildings will first materialize in Dubai.

The Dynamic Architecture project was designed by David Fisher, a Florentine architect. The buildings will constantly change shape and will use wind energy, making it possible for a single tower to generate enough energy to power 10 towers.
The individual chambers that comprise each floor of the rotating jigsaw puzzle of a building are sent upwards like an elevator, creating the possibility for anentire floor to be put in place in three days.

via:trendhunter

Fashion: BODYAMR Spring/Summer'08

2007-11-27T12:34:00.001+04:00

BODYAMR a London based label created by Omani-born designer Amr (pronounced ‘Armour’) has gained a cult international since it launched in 2004. The Spring/Summer'08 collection is beyond fabulousness and all about the details (draping, ruffles,sparkle and bandage inspired pieces).
Amr's designs can be found at upscale retailers such as Harvey Nichols, Harrods, and online at Net-a-Porter.

Review: Abjeez release new album

2007-11-26T20:31:00.000+04:00

Abjeez, the Iranian music band based in Sweden released their most recent album under the "world pop" style labelled Hameh.

Album is available on itunes.

itunes link

Event: ArtParis // AbuDhabi

2007-11-26T03:03:00.001+04:00

26 until the 29 November, 2007

The organizers of the richest art fair ever held in the
Middle East announced that modern and contemporary masterpieces worth more than
US$400 million will be exhibited and offered for sale at artparis-abudhabi, marking the UAE
capital’s confirmation as the arts and culture capital of the region.
ouch.

Review: Zero Degree Turn

2007-11-26T02:51:00.000+04:00

Creating quite a stir in Iran, Zero Degree Turn is a television miniseries that has been bowling audiences over with its extraordinary love stories and bold acting.

The series is centered around a relationship that an Iranian student develops after he travels to Paris for university during the Second World War. After meeting a Jewish French girl named Sarah Struk, the Persian student - Habib Parsa, develops feelings for her, despite their initial clash of interests.

Parsa eventually helps Stuk escape from the Nazi forces with the aid of Iranian diplomats. This hour long drama has achieved great acclaim for its strong production values, poignant storylines, and above all, the crossing of boundaries within the theme of love.

Review: Beirut The Flying Club Cup

2007-11-26T02:44:00.000+04:00

Very few bands have managed to achieve the mythical and ethereal quality that Beirut have produced. Sure, the comparisons are endless - Rufus Wainright, Jens Lekman, any other exotic European-looking male singer songwriter that can brandish a guitar, but what makes Beirut different to the rest?

Beirut tends to make a lot of noise too, but it’s noise that is controlled and precise, musical and majestical. Songs such as La Banlieu, Nantes and A Sunday Smile will resonate through your head with absolute clarity, luring you into a land made up of tradition, carnivals and flights of fancy. Organs, xylophones, a collection of string instruments, all add an air of exotic beauty to his music, bringing great depth to his lyrics and romantically distinct voice.

The Flying Club Cup is an absolute gem of an album, sparkling with intelligent indie-folk songs and cosmopolitan musical compositions.

Travel: AL-Dar (111)

2007-11-25T20:15:00.000+04:00

"It's not Beirut, but things are definitely changing here," says Soleiman Farkouh, the 42-year-old owner of Al-Dar 111, a popular restaurant in the Christian Quarter of the world's oldest continuously inhabited city. "Though Damascus is a quiet town, it's starting to develop a very sophisticated and cultured international scene."
Al-Dar (111) Restaurant
Bab Touma, Old Damascus
Assieh Street No (6)
Syria. Tel: + 963 11 542-3232

Travel: Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay

2007-11-25T12:24:00.000+04:00

Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay
Zighy Bay, Oman

Profile: Hassan Hajjaj: Making Pop Art for the Middle East

2007-11-25T01:58:00.000+04:00

From his striking photographs of North African life, to his distinctive ‘recycled’ sculptures, it’s no surprise that Hassan Hajjaj
has been dubbed the ‘Andy Warhol of Marrakech’. Hajjaj has been making waves all over Europe, with his work appearing on everything from advertising campaigns right down to the album artwork of historic indie band Blur. Hajjaj is also reputable as the man who furnished the popular Andy Wahloo venue in Paris, adding his personalized touches to give the restaurant an atmosphere like no other.

Hajjaj’s past lies within two different, yet strong cultures. Born and raised in Larache, Morocco in 1962, Hajjaj, along with his mother and sisters, followed his father to London in 1973. Spending his time in the city, he became influenced by the distinct 70s sounds and art, and as a result started to work on projects that would fuse his newfound Western roots with that of his past. After returning to Morocco in the 80s, his North African influence was strengthened in his photography and art, picking up on bold contrasts and discovering simple, yet potent ways to create striking pieces of art.

His love for both London and Morocco is one that has helped him develop clearer ideas about his work. “In Marrakech you have a lot of artists, colors, sounds and smells that make you want to make things. In London I'm surrounded with so much diversity from art, to food, to cinema, as well as the different people from all over the world. Living and working between the two worlds always fascinates me with the difference, which I try to express in my work.”

Even though he claims his venture into designing was ‘totally accidental!’, Hajjaj has been moved by the recent attention to his work. “It's always nice when I get complemented by someone from any Arab country, that's where I feel I’m doing something proud for our culture. I have been doing this for around 12 years now and (now) it seems that I'm getting some attention for my work.”

Looking at Hajjaj’s work, it is easy to see why most Arabs can identify with it. Using recycled packaging and every-day objects sourced from the Middle Eastern streets, his colorful pieces represent remnants of nostalgia and association for many Arabs – as well as passing important social commentary regarding the present and the past. On the other hand, Hajjaj has a more straightforward approach to his work - “I try to keep it to my lifestyle. I try not to analyze it as long as it feels right for me”.

Hajjaj is currently in the stages of completing a Moroccan guest house – the Riad Yima – an old-fashioned Moroccan accommodation that Hajjaj is in the process of extensively furnishing. Hajjaj is scheduled to be in Dubai come November for an exhibition at the Third Line Gallery, where he will surely bowl the audiences over with his unique brand of Middle Eastern Warholian glamour.

Travel: Aman-i-Khás – Camping In Outdoor Luxury

2007-11-24T21:33:00.001+04:00

The Aman-i-Khás resort in Rajasthan is truly a campsite with a difference. Consisting of ten luxury tents that have been equipped with the necessary amenities for comfort, this is one camping ground that aims provides guests with a heightened outdoor experience. Ever since opening in 2003, the Aman-i-Khás luxury campsite is regarded to be one of the most notable campsite resorts in the world, taking home rewards from the Zagat Survey, Conde Nast Traveler and Tatler Magazine.
Aman-i-Khás
Ranthambhore, Rajasthan, India Tel: (91) 7462 252 052 Fax: (91) 7462 252 178 email: aman-i-khas@amanresorts.com mailing address: 77 Friends Colony (West) New Delhi 110065, India

Travel: Andy Wahloo - Recycled Moroccan Delight

2007-11-24T21:25:00.000+04:00

A restaurant full of trash might not necessarily be everyone’s cup of tea unless it is fitting out an ultra-trendy dining outlet in the heart of Paris. Of course not all Parisians would like to identify with the idea that they’re reveling in the presence on ‘trash’, instead using a term to identifying it as an individual work of art. This is also known as ‘kitsch’.

For restaurant Andy Wahloo, its reputation has been built on rehashing the past, reinterpreting the essence of Middle Eastern nostalgia. The brainchild of restaurateur Mourad Mazouz and Karim Mazouz, Andy Wahloo can be instantly associated with the rest of the Mazouz franchise that includes the highly successful Sketch and Momo London eateries.

The title of the restaurant ‘Andy Wahloo’ may simply be an Arabic term meaning ‘I don’t have anything’, however you can’t deny the link between the restaurant and its quirky recreation of an Andy Warhol influenced environment. An interesting feature of the venue that has many patrons taking a closer look is the selection of Pop Art prints put up around the restaurant. These prints may seem to be exact replicas of famous Pop Art prints, but on closer inspection you will see how they have all been modified with a surprising Middle Eastern twist. In these posters, Arabic packaging replaces the Campbell’s soup can to become the main focus. Hanging within the same space as Egyptian film posters, these prints come to life in the context of Andy Wahloo’s Moroccan retro, creating a new and vibrant vintage space that has been translated from Arabic culture.

Although the restaurant has been created by Mazouz, the real name behind the feel of the restaurant is the artist Hassan Hajjaj. Having developed a skill from constructing striking objects from all kinds of recycled material, his pop art influences shine through from the restaurant’s interiors. Hajjaj constructed a number of items located around the restaurant, such as the many lamps hanging around the restaurant that are made out of recycled material. Hajjaj’s powerful photographs that he took around North Africa also hang around the restaurant, allowing patrons to visually connect with the North African theme of the restaurant. Hajjaj’s imaginative efforts have certainly not gone unnoticed; in 2003 he helped Andy Wahloo win the French ‘Le Fooding’ award for Best Restaurant Design.

The food and drink offerings at Andy Wahloo will prove to be just as satisfying as experiencing the interiors. The cocktails prove to be even more tantalizing during the bar’s ‘Happy Hours’ between 5-8pm when drink prices will drop to half price. If you’re yearning for something without that alcoholic kick, do things the authentic way and order a flavorful hookah and chase the taste down with an authentic pot of Moroccan mint tea.

Dining at Andy Wahloo will present you with a selection of the popular mezze plates such as marinated olives and crisp salads with freshly made couscous. For mains, try their traditional North African meat Tajines or BBQ grilled meats such as chicken and lamb. If you are after some heartier-portioned meals, simply head over to the 404 restaurant next door, another Mazouz-owned establishment that is widely known for its delectable menu brimming with Moroccan, Tunisian and Algerian delights.

However, the real draw for Andy Wahloo would have to be its atmosphere. Andy Wahloo is known for its party nights, with DJs making regular appearances to mix up selections of Middle Eastern Raï music or spin some moving house tunes. The crowds that gather here are a collection of indie trendsetters or regular aficionados of the North African party scenes.
Andy Wahloo:
69 rue des Gravilliers, 3rd arrondissement, Tel: +33 (0)1 42 71 20 38, Mº Arts et Métiers Open: 12pm-2am, Mon-Sat.

City Guide: Salalah, Oman

2007-11-24T20:57:00.000+04:00

Salalah is widely known as a popular holiday spot within the Middle Eastern regions. The second-largest town in Oman, Salalah is famed for its scenic beauty, thanks to prevalent monsoon seasons between June and September. The monsoons fill up the wadis and cover the mountains with lush greenery. The Smahan Mountains are a popular tourist attraction, proving to be a visual feast for all the senses.

The city is primarily known for its frankincense production. The frankincense inscene is regarded to be a famous and notable produce of the area. Frankincense trees can be seen growing across the Smahan Moutains and by the streams - the town has even been decorated with large statues of frankincense burners, a true dedication to its history with the mythical fragrance. The old Haffa Souq is the best place to pick up frankincense, as well as a number of different fragrances in oils and their natural forms.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the land’s history with frankincense, visit the newly opened Frankincense Land Museum at the Al Balid Archaeological Park. The park itself is a UNESCO heritage site where visitors can bear witness to the ancient architecture and structure of the region. The Frankincense Land Museum has two halls that will educate visitors on the history and geography of the region, as well as present knowledge about Oman’s marine history.

Including the Haffa souq, there are three main souqs in Salalah. Along with the Old Souq, is the Gold Souq and the new souq. For antique selections of Omani jewelry, the gold souq will be able to tempt you with many stores and choices. The new souq is where visitors can pick up some exquisite handicrafts such as local dress, handicrafts and all kinds of handmade silver Omani jewelry.

Other attractions in Salalah are its extensive nature and wildlife. It’s an ideal place for bird-watching, and camels and goats can usually be seen wandering at east on the major roads.

For accommodation, there are plenty of choices from five-star resorts to seaside holiday villas. Choose from the Hilton Salalah Resort or the 45-acre Crown Plaza Resort. If you’re looking for something more affordable, try the Salalah Hostel for a low-cost, yet well-equipped accommodation.

The ideal time to visit Salalah would be between October and April and during the monsoon season when the weather becomes far cooler than the rest of the neighboring regions.

Architecture: The Fate of the Bubble

2007-11-24T20:03:00.001+04:00

With its unusual aesthetic shape, the City Center Building was initially planned to become an important and iconic urban landmark in Beirut. The ‘bubble’ was designed in 1965 by Lebanese architect Joseph Philippe Karam a man who helped introduce the modernist architecture movement to Beirut.

Although this seemingly curious ‘bubble’ structure was considered by some as a one-off experiment, the saubone (a local term for ‘soap’) actually managed to remain a resilient venture. Judging by the attention it was garnering, the ‘bubble’ was a benchmark, a sign of the new presence and creativity that was strong in the energy in the city. Even now, years after its completion, it still stands as one of the more noteworthy features of the modernism wave that swept through the city.

Of course, no one can dispute that the building hasn’t taken a beating or two. The City Center’s once-smooth exterior has been worn down by time, a reflection of the difficult times that were occurring in Beirut. The structure was riddled with bullet marks and shell damage, sections of concrete were cracked and broken and the metal supports of the building were stripped and laid bare to the public eye. After the outbreak of the Civil War, the building was left alone and it turned into a brutal, yet important reminder of the tumultuous time that had passed.

The building has been through quite a number of ups and downs with regards to its fate – usually related to the socio-political effects that were occurring in the country at the time. The building lay untouched for several years, until a potential for change emerged in the early 90s when the site was designated to become the new Finance Ministry Headquarters and penned to be demolished. Work on the building began with the installation of a new foundation and basement floors. They even went as far as demolishing the original ‘nose’ of the building. However, due to the political events surrounding a change in the local governments, the rest of the plans were eventually abandoned and the building was once again left as is.

In 2003, development giant Solidere signed on to invest in the bubble. To Solidere, the City Center Building seemed like an idea place for development due to its prime location. This appeared to put the fate of the building in peril as it was scheduled to finally be demolished, much to the dismay of the public. These plans were eventually put on the back-burner in 2004 when Solidere made the surprise announcement that Bernard Khoury was joining the project. Instead of demolishing the City Center, he proposed an extensive redevelopment that would enhance the building’s unique shape.

Khoury’s plans involved surrounding the dome of the building with scaffolding and creating extra space below the main structure for a series of exhibition spaces and galleries. The new building would also allow for more pedestrian use - the public will be able to walk through the bubble and look at the crowds below.

Regardless of the plans for the bubble to be modernized, plans to fix the outer shell were not drawn up. Instead, it was instructed that the flawed walls of the concrete façade were to be left as is, serving as a reminder that even modern aesthetics cannot completely erase the scars of a once-damaged city.

Unfortunately, this plan did not seem to be the final fate of the City Center Building. In 2005, Political events in Beirut surrounding the assassination of Prime Minister Rafik Hariri turned the future of the building back onto the unknown, as the project was abandoned due to turmoil once again. However, things soon took a new turn in 2005 as Solidere sold the site to another development group - the Abu Dhabi Investment House (ADIH).

At the moment, it’s not clear what will be the next development for the City Center Building. It seems that the future of this historic piece might soon be cut short as it is demolished and taken apart. With the surrounding political and social state in Beirut, it appears as though nothing can be determined until some socially and political clarity can be resolved. Until then, the bubble remains in the center of the city, marked by war and still awaiting its next move of fate.